In a statement posted on X, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco said it was deeply saddened by the tragic attack on Sohailuddin. The mission stated that it is in close contact with the victim's family and friends and is prepared to provide all possible consular assistance. It also confirmed that it remains engaged with local authorities and will continue to monitor the matter closely.
Utah police have arrested Peter Michael Larsen on suspicion of attempted murder and carrying a prohibited dangerous weapon. According to investigators, Larsen admitted that he repeatedly stabbed Sohailuddin because "he believes he is a catalyst and he intends to kill Muslims."
An affidavit filed before the court by the authorities stated that releasing Larsen from custody would pose a danger to the public based on his violent actions and extremist ideology.
Authorities said Larsen, 48, was on parole for a previous violent felony at the time of the attack. The stabbing occurred at Valley Fair Mall, where Sohailuddin was working at a kiosk. Before police arrived, bystanders intervened and managed to remove the knife from the suspect's hand.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco is deeply saddened by the tragic stabbing incident involving an Indian national in Utah. The Consulate is in close contact with the friends and family and stands ready to provide all possible consular assistance. We remain engaged…
— India in San Francisco (@CGISFO) July 15, 2026
A witness told FOX 13 News that before launching the attack, the suspect questioned Sohailuddin about where he was from, asked his name, and inquired whether he was Muslim.
The incident has triggered widespread concern among members of the Indian community in the United States, with calls for all necessary assistance to be extended to the victim and his family in Hyderabad. Appeals have also been made to facilitate emergency humanitarian visas for close family members so they can travel to the United States during the ongoing medical emergency.
Sohailuddin's family in Hyderabad continues to await updates on his condition and has appealed for prayers for his speedy recovery.
The Utah stabbing has also renewed concerns over the safety of Indian nationals in the United States. Last month, 28-year-old Telangana native Anshul Kuncha was shot dead in Philadelphia after allegedly being lured to a vacant apartment through a fake pizza delivery order. A 14-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested and charged with murder in that case.
In October 2025, Hyderabad student Chandrashekar Pole was also shot dead while working part-time at a convenience store in Dallas, Texas. The series of incidents has intensified concerns regarding the safety and security of Indian citizens, particularly students and young professionals, living and working across the United States.
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